This is a reposting of a blog post from last year but we wanted to remind everyone of the USSSA bat rule. You know, before you go pick-up a new bat.

Coaches and parents, I know everyone is excited to get out on the field and start swinging those brand new bats but there is something you need to keep in mind. The bat you own or have in your wish-list may not be certified for USSSA play. If you plan on dropping a load of cash to pickup a new bat, and I do mean “load”, you need to check the stamp. Bats aren’t cheap and you could be making a costly mistake. The new USSSA 2014 Rules state:

“The new bat standards will go into effect 1/1/14 instead of 9/1/13. Beginning January 1, 2014, Bats must have the New USSSA 1.20 BPF Mark.”

If you have an older bat or one that doesn’t have the 1.20 stamp it’s still ok for practice but the umpires will be checking before all games start so they won’t be used in league play. I know this comes as a shock and a real kick in the “wallet”. The Sluggers feel your pain. We just got new bats at the end of last season and when we heard the news we were less than happy.
So, before you go out and spend all your hard-earned money on a brand new beautiful bat make sure to check the barrel for the new USSSA 1.20 BPF stamp. If it doesn’t have the stamp, you just spent a lot for a piece of practice only equipment. Coaches, bring your bats to the meeting this Thursday if you have one that you would like checked. The coaches will also receive their new rosters and player contact information this Thursday at the scheduled coaches meeting.(Check your age division Calendar.)

(p.s. Have you noticed how often I use Jennifer Lawrence in this blog? I may need to think about that.)